An unusual, attractive and well appointed famille rose Bitong (brushpot.) Figures in panels decoration on a red and black burl patterned background. Green Artemisia leaf on the foot. The octagonal form is infrequently encountered as compared with hexagonal and other forms (particularly round ones) as one researches similar examples from leading public auctions. This brushpot has also been fitted with slightly convex hardwood cover of conforming octagonal shape - embedded with a bronze, Han dynasty style turtle form seal finial (we have included among our photographs one illustrating the characters on the seal.) The antique hardwood stand appears to be a later marriage - fitting only because some of the rim of the stand is missing - and presents nicely enough with the loss to the rear. The brushpot itself is in reasonably sound condition with smaller and larger glaze frits (some older and filled, one a bit deeper than the glaze), and an apparent "crows foot" to the inside though not conveying to the glaze on the outside (so stable and no more bothersome than a little crazing.) Proper conservation of the frits shouldn't be all that daunting a project. At least 19th century, the Artemisia leaf mark and citrus peel texture suggest an earlier period. Height of brushpot 5 1/8 inches (13 cm), diameter point to point of rim about 6 1/8 inches (15.6) [up to 5 1/8 inches diameter side to side of rim] Weighs 2.85 lbs (1.291 kgs) Out of a Maryland estate last year.

A Japanese, Meiji era, six part bronze usabata with relief decoration. Used for ikebana flower arrangements. The baluster form main vessel with bird and crab on one side and hawk and snake on the other side - both in forested water fall landscapes - and four smaller birds in landscape panels. Separate floral and foliate handles. Separate top flaring to a broad, disc form with tall rim featuring six birds in landscape panels below incised key bordered rim surrounding incised decoration of carp, salamander and turtle in water among aquatic plants. Separate trifid support with high relief and sculptural peonies decoration. Separate base with chidori (sparrows) over active sea. Good condition with minor conservation comprised of improvisation to one missing pin supporting one of the handles (an easy fix for a metalwork restorer) and a similar improvisation using a loosely fitted bamboo pin to support one of the peony blooms on the trifid support (also an easy fix for a metalwork specialist.) Very minor losses to peony petals. Signed Yamashiro ju min Shikishi Takayoshi Kore Tsukuru. Overall height 23 1/4 inches (59.05 cm). Rim diameter 11 3/8 inches (28.89 cm). Weight and to some extent size will be a factor when shipping this uncommon find.

An extraordinarily expressive, esoteric, Edo period lacquered wood sculpture of Monju Bosatsu (Bodhisattva Manjusri). The figure seated in relaxed posture. The lower hand likely held a sutra scroll while the right hand likely held a sword. The sutra signified enlightenment (which attribution was particularly ascribed to this Bodhisattva) and the sword signified wisdom cutting off delusion. The Shishi association represents power and wisdom. The finish contrasts between the burnished gold lacquer of the figure and the painted matte lacquer of the dramatically portrayed beast and rockery. A mandorla was once attached to the back (no dovetailed slot so unclear if a mandorla was originally intended.) All raised on a multipart gold lacquered plinth with decorative borders and base with ornately carved bas relief frieze of clouds centering a deer among roiled waters. Both the figure and beast with inlaid crystal eyes with dramatic affect - particularly the large eyes of the Shishi. Monju Bosatsu's eyes are casts toward his right hand as if to examine the sword which would have been held (an activity any samurai sword connoisseur can relate to.) Expected moderate loss and distress to the lacquer surface, the gold lacquered figure of Monju Bosatsu in particularly decent condition. Overall height, 14 3/4 inches (37.5 cm). Overall width 11 1/4 inches (28.58 cm). Height of figure, Shishi and rockery, 10 1/4 inches (26 cm). Height of the figure and Shishi only (together forming one piece), 8 7/8 inches (22.5 cm).

A fine and early museum quality complete set of five Ko-Imari, Kakiemon style cups or choko. Blue underglaze and green, red, aubergine, yellow and black overglaze enamel decoration of peonies and prunus blossoms in garden landscape with rockery and fence. Traces of rubbed gilt enameled highlights. The choko form saw many uses such as teabowls (also seen in early European ceramics after Japanese examples of the period), large sake cups, and mukozuke. We estimate from the delicate but sure potting, the free hand but care of painted decoration, and color of enamels that these cups are Genroku era - late 17th to early 18th century. Each with blue underglaze spurious six character Chenghua mark in single blue circle inside a narrow ring foot. Very good condition considering age and use with expected light scratching to surfaces from use over the centuries and minor imperfections as would be expected from the period. One with an attractive, old gold lacquer filled stable line from the rim - that bowl also rendering a pleasant resonance when lightly tapped. Diameters are not perfect circles but longest length of each is nearly 4 inches diameter (about 10.15 cm). Height (and foot diameters) similarly varies near 2 1/2 inches (6.35 cm). We acquired this set with an old, labeled tomobako in which we continue to store the cups. The label reads "Ko-Imari choko go kyaku, inokuchi" (the last term, inokuchi, referring to the possible use of this five piece set as sake choko.) The box (missing its top) apparently having started its life with the cups, it is understood that the cups are earlier.

Rare "Buddha Asuka (B)" woodblock print by Kiyoshi Saito, 1955, number 40 of only 50 printed, signed in white ink and sealed in red ink both on the image area. Signed and sealed printed label "self-carved self printed" also included (attached to paper backing removed to inspect condition.)

We were not able to find a recent auction record for this image with data available. Another mid-century work by Saito (in color) titled Asuka (Kudara Kannon) [possibly confused by the artist with one of the Roku Kannon also of the Horyuji] was bestowed in 1959 by the artist to the Collection of The University of Michigan Museum of Art. It is noted that Saito was creating works in a series of early Nara sculptures around the time. A Saito subject similar to the present, muted work (but printed two years later in a run of 100) of another Nara sculpture, Miroku, was offered in Christies sale 8862, lot 306 together with a Winter in Aizu print.

The muted colors of the present work is a reflection of the somber lighting within the temples housing sculptures of this period.

Condition of the present work is good, with some toning and with brown paper tape around the edges (covering up to about a half inch margin.) A penciled note (from the framer?) appears in the margin on the verso. Some ink bleed on the verso from the original printing not at all compromising the image. Not clear if this was the first framing, the print was nonetheless not removed for some time until we removed the backing to inspect condition (image included of verso before removing paper.) Sheet height about 33 inches, sheet width about 21 1/4 inches. Image height about 29 5/8 inches, image width about 16 inches.

The ginger jar appears to be an 18th century ceramic with form and foot consistent with the period of the Kangxi mark. But as is well known, many period ginger jars were skinned and the famille noire decoration - prunus being a favorite though often with birds - added later. When added is often a mystery but it is known that the Dowager Empress Cixi was fond of the palette and commissioned many such conversions. In fact, much famille noire ceramics in private and public collections have come into doubt in later years. Some smaller examples yet retain strong attributions to the Kangxi period. Scholarship of the famille noire pallete finds that later examples literally used a black glaze whereas earlier examples used a cobalt oxide ground covered with a green glaze wash - the more apparent disclosure of green being in the lighter prunus limbs, as in the present example, where a resist kept the cobalt from bleeding into the decoration. In such older (and presumably, also, period) examples considered rare and desirable, one therefore finds traces of the green wash evident along the unglazed edges where the "black" ground terminates. Such edge traces are evident on the present example along the foot, the rim, and where the "black" ground meets the aubergine resist glazed branches. Also testifying to fair age of the glaze is natural rubbing, light scratching and evidence of difficulty controlling the firing (less of a problem in later kiln conditions.) We have no problem calling this at least a solidly 19th century redecorated (including the mark) Kangxi pot. The evidence of earlier technique and application gives us confidence to say the decoration may also be earlier. But we hesitate to say it could be "mark and period", particularly for this form, though the six character black Kangxi mark in double circle presents convincing calligraphy. Details in the aubergine prunus branches and in the white and yellow prunus blossoms also picked out in black fine line. The condition of the jar is relatively good aside from the mentioned rubbing and light scratching as well as a star crack barely visible inside the pot on one side but not conveying conspicuously through the glaze. The loosely fitting cover has met with an accident in the past and its parts glued back together. Height with cover about 8 1/4 inches (21 cm). Height without cover about 7 inches (17.8 cm).

Thai sutra box and sutra. The rectangular box with ornate gilt decorated panels (each a different scene), three on each side and one on each end, of deities in combat on black lacquered surface. the interior painted red. The sutra with leather ends and sturdy paper leaves with mostly Sanskrit and hand illustrated in colors variably throughout. All good condition with reasonable wear. Sutra (closed) cover length 26 3/4 inches (67.9 cm). Box length (along the base), 32 1/2 inches (82.55 cm). Box height, 13 5/8 inches (34.6 cm), Box width (along the base), 11 inches (27.94 cm). This item will ship oversized and with significant weight in a wood crate all at buyer's expense (or we can arrange with buyer to pick up after paid.)

A complete Edo period tantric sculpture of Dainichi Nyorai seated on original lotus throne and with original sun mandorla. The figure seated in the lotus position with crystal inlaid eyes and third eye; metal crown, bead jewelry and ornamentation; and hands held in Vajra Mudra. The lotus throne with petaled seat on raised, fenced plinth with decorative panels all on shaped base carved and textured to suggest clouds (inscribed on bottom.) The mandorla with openwork radiant son positioned behind the figure's head and with lotus and cloud decoration toward its base. This is consistent with reference to "the Great Sun Buddha". Expected moderate loss and distress to the lacquer surface, the sculpture and throne are in relatively good condition. The mandorla has old lacquer repair securing and stabilizing a few cracks or breaks (all original.) Overall height, 18 inches (45.72 cm). Height of figure on throne (excluding the mandorla) 15 1/2 inches (39.37 cm). Height of the figure only, 8 1/4 inches (20.95 cm).

A pair of fine and very unusual Art Deco Japanese studio porcelain Iroe Nabeshima style sculptural vases. Of waisted, triangular section, seeming to suggest an origami depiction (if not being too imaginative - though these vases are imaginative if anything) of crossed rhinoceros horns as seen in Chinese art symbolism of the 'Hundred Treasures'. Each vase with three angular parts forming the triangular section with uneven rims, the three distinct parts curved (forming the waist) and tapered through to the three feet. Nabeshima palette enamels and underglaze blue decoration of Chidori-Mon and bamboo lattice and of Botan-Karakusa. The Chidori and bamboo were used in Mon for clans including prominent Uesugi and Date families. Each vase signed on a triangular, flat bottom inside the splayed feet. It appears there may be two artist names repeated on each so perhaps a collaboration. An old import shop label, "BI'DON importers", still adheres inside the rim of one of the pair. Good condition. Height varies slightly - 12 9/16 inches (31.9 cm) for one and 12 1/8 inches (30.8 cm) for the other. Variation in the weight (and contrary to size) of these substantial vases also is telling of the non-commercial origins of these meticulous studio works - the slightly shorter vase weighing more at 1.685 kg and the slightly taller vase 1.445 kg

A nicely shaped bronze, tripod bombe incense burner with opposing, ribbon handles rising from the rim. A 16 character Xuande mark centered on the bottom. The vessel comparatively thinly formed (relative to 17th and earlier 18th century examples and so estimated late 18th century to early 19th century) nevertheless with a notable weight to mass ratio: 2.59 lb (1.175 kg) Length - handle to handle - 6 7/8 inches (17.463 cm). Height to handles about 4 3/8 inches (11.113 cm) or to rim about 3 3/8 inches (8.573 cm). Condition is presentable with good patina and wear from handling and in good state with the exception of a patched casting flaw including a line to the mark (see images of the underside with mark.)

A very nicely carved okimono type netsuke group depicting Hotei with Karako signed Masayoshi. En suite with a first quality Tobako-ire (tobacco pouch) with abstract Ho-no-Tori (phoenix) among flowers decoration stitched in muted tones silk thread to the hide wallet. The netsuke attached to a metal chain cord with fine mixed metal ojime slip with decoration of dragon in active sea. The chain then attached to the wallet with 2.5 inch long fine silver clasp with repousse decoration of peonies (uncertain if it is a slight tarnish or a shibuichi patination on the clasp - perhaps shibuichi as not tarnishing too darkly and maintaining a lustrous surface.) Decoration on the inside lining of the wallet appears may include a Christian cross (if we are not over interpreting.) Condition is good save a .238 cm shallow chip on one of the Karako (not an unusual or problematic point of condition and easily smoothed by a qualified conservator. A slight, old line from one of the himatoshi of similar size and also not unusual for an old ivory netsuke. The wallet in pristine, apparently unused condition. Netsuke length 1 7/8 inches (4.762 cm). Tobako-ire length 5 1/4 inches (13.335 cm). Shipping of this object is not an issue within the continental United States. Any prospective buyer outside the United States must be willing to accept any delay while an export permit is applied for at buyer's expense. International buyer's would need settle this purchase by wire transfer, including estimated shipping costs, and are responsible for any requirements on their end regarding the import of antique ivory and must accept all risks relating to such import.

An early Koryo dynasty celadon Maebyeong vase. 11th to early 12th century. The color is a more drab, vitreous green than the more opaque, bluer examples from the accomplished production of the middle 12th through early 13th centuries. Height, 10 1/2 inches (25.4 cm). Condition is good. Some oxidized kiln adherence to the sides and particularly the rim, inclusions in the glaze from the firing, a couple small unglazed points along the girth and foot, course foot with a couple old small chips on the foot only, partially glaze inside the foot - exposing an earthy light-brown body. Some traces of red enamel decoration (including some spots on the foot) no doubt added well after production but quite some time ago - now almost completely worn away.

Korean painting of a lone fisherman in boat in Zen (Korean - Seon [not to be confused with the artist]) school landscape with inverted rocky cliff with trees and shrubbery clinging to a bluff over water with grasses in the foreground and hilly, forested shores and clouds in the faded distance. Anonymous. 19th century, Joseon dynasty. Good condition with relatively even toning of the paper with light distress and slight rubbing mostly on the periphery. Image area 19 inches high by 15 inches wide. (Shadowbox frame about 33 inches high by 23 3/8 inches wide.)

A good 19th century carved and lacquered wood Noh mask representing the character role of Ko Omote (young woman). The well oxidized wood visible on the inside of the mask exhibiting the knife strokes of the anonymous artist. Generally good condition and the lacquer strong and stable. In the interest of full and detailed disclosure: Some natural age checking of the wood on the figure's left side also conveying to the lacquered surface on the face. Similar age cracks in the lacquer on either side of the figure's nose, where the wood is thicker, not showing any checking to the wood at that point from the inside. Light lacquer loss under the lower lip, near each nostril and the top edge where the hair meets the rim. Some rubbing to the black lacquer where the later silk cords are now strung. The lacquered surface could stand for a light, professional cleaning (though not necessary) of some points such as nose tip, forehead and chin but care should be taken not to disturb patina. Height, 8 3/8 inches (21.28 cm). Width 5 3/8 inches (13.65 cm).

Koryo dynasty celadon bowl. The cavetto with inlaid white slip decoration including ornamental band inside the rim and four strawberry sprays surrounding centered chrysanthemum flowerhead within double ring. The exterior with white and black slip inlaid decoration of two graduated bands of chrysanthemum roundels within double rings. The olive green glaze pooling to blue-green and burned in the kiln to a drab tone on a portion of the exterior. 12th to 13th century. Good condition. Diameter 7 3/8 inches (18.73cm). Height 2 1/2 inches (6.35cm)

A Chinese green nephrite jade model of a pig. Carved in good proportion and more suggestive of a pig than more commonly encountered abstract, angular examples of the Han dynasty. Sensitively modeled - swelling at the head, forefeet, back haunches, rump and belly. Relief and incised details for the snout, eyes, ears, neck, hooves, rear and tail. Drilled from center back to belly. The nephrite stone of an even, opaque consistency and of green color with buff colored calcification from the head, along the back and upper-right side, to the rear. Surgical steel does not leave a scratch. Acquired from TK Oriental Antiques as Han Dynasty in the early 90's. But we have seen realistically suggestive examples similar to the current object attributed to the Tang dynasty. 'Chinese Jades In The Avery Brundage Collection' (d'Argence, 1977, 2nd revised ed.) illustrates a primitive Six Dynasties example of comparable proportions and form (plate XXV). d'Argence comments how this similarly modeled example has evolved from the Han. We are very reserved in judging and describing jades - archaic looking jades in particular which we instead refer to as archaistic and possibly from a later period. The principal of TK Oriental Antiques explains the uneven calcification often found on archaic jades as owing to the position of the object relative to earth, minerals and natural forces coming into contact with an object for untold centuries. Good condition. Length from snout to tail is 3 inches (7.62cm). Highest point when standing is 1 3/8 inches (3.49cm)

A fine 19th century classical rosewood canterbury. The four compartments separated by three rail and stile partitions with handle, enclosed by openwork lyre sides and turned corner posts with finials, all over two drawer case raised on turned feet. Wonderfully appropriate for a period music room. The two drawers likely cost the patron a pretty penny in the period and are not commonly encountered. Secondary woods (exhibiting only hand rendered kerf marks) include red cedar and chamfered poplar for the drawers, and red cedar and knotty pine for the case. Note the darker oxidation (as expected) on the exposed lower drawer bottom. Probably American, inspired by Regency design. Compare with Neal's 2005 Winter Estates Auction lot 261 which lacked case and drawers. Very good condition save some rosewood veneer loss on one side lyre (see third enlargement - a minor consideration easily restored - we will not.) This will ship oversized or by special delivery service at buyer's expense. Length 20 1/2 inches (52cm), Height 18 inches (45.7cm), Depth 14 1/2 inches (36.8cm).

I visited the Corcoran Gallery of Art in Washington DC a little more than a year ago and saw some really creative ceramics with leather incorporated into the composition among related, sculptural works. It did make a spontaneous and lasting impression that led me to recognize and purchase a wonderful and unusual work by the same hand found in an antiques and collectibles market.

Featured here is a monumental mixed media salt glazed pottery charger. My first impression was a landscape with sun (concentric iron colored circles on clay body) on the horizon (leather upon iron colored band) over blue colored area (suggesting water?) Where the horizon meets is reminiscent of Rothko. But the hanger suggests it may have been intended with the concentric rings below, as if a valley. The blue area, in that case, might represent the sky (if indeed it is intended as a landscape.) The horizon would not sit level if the hanger shows intent. One might also remove the hanger and place as a centerpiece. The charger is signed "TURKER GWU CORCORON [sic] 1971".

The artist is Turker Ozdogan, Fellow of Corcoran College of Art and Design. He also received an MFA at George Washington University. As faculty, he established the ceramics program at GWU and continues as the Director. Ozdogan previously received recognition from the Applied Fine Arts School, Istanbul, the Eczacibasi Ceramics Factory also in Turkey, and Furst Adolf Werkstatte Fur Keramik, Buckeburg, Germany. He has achieved recognition, awards or exhibitions with Corcoran Gallery of Art, the International Monetary Fund, the World bank, Meridian House, and the United Nations Plaza, Turkevi Gallery. His work has been featured in the press and in publications and is in many private and public collections including The George Washington University Permanent Collection, and Kale Ceramics Museum, Turkey. Condition is good. Diameter, 22 inches.

Have not found other works available on the market and no archival basis to establish comparative value. The artist is apparently aesthetically rather than commercially motivated. This will be weighty and careful packing so at the buyer's expense.